Photo via Yahoo Sports

Evgeni Malkin responds to Alex Ovechkin’s retirement announcment

Evgeni Malkin shared his thoughts on the upcoming retirement of longtime peer Alex Ovechkin, who recently confirmed that the 2026-27 campaign will be his final year in the NHL. Malkin expressed his admiration for the Capitals star, emphasizing his status as a legend and wishing him a healthy and productive final season.

The two players, who entered the league from Russia at the same time in 2004, have maintained a complex relationship that evolved from intense on-ice rivalry to a bond of mutual respect. While Ovechkin prepares for his farewell, Malkin is currently evaluating his own future beyond this season, having started his campaign for players aged 40 and older with four points in two games.

Up nextNHL· 1h ago

NHL’s all-time leading goalscorer Alex Ovechkin to retire at end of season